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State Insurance Laws
Texas Auto Insurance - (TX)
Depending on your state, you have a very specific group of auto insurance guidelines you must follow to stay legal on the road. If you’re thinking of getting a new policy or are considering a move to another state, you should review that state’s regulations and carefully consider how you will change your auto insurance coverage. Most experts use state regulations as a starting point, and build coverage from there – it’s wise to get coverage that far exceeds a state’s minimum standards. Look over your state’s requirements, compare them to your existing policy, and then get a series of competitive quotes from respected insurance companies. This way, you’ll know you have the best coverage you need at the best price.
Auto Insurance in Texas
Auto insurance in Texas is taken very seriously. Before you register a car in the Lone Star State, you must have it insured. Each vehicle you own must have insurance coverage that meets or exceeds these standards:
- At least $25,000 for bodily injury or death to one person per accident.
- At least $50,000 for bodily injury or death to two or more people in an accident.
- At least $25,000 for property damage in an accident.
Remember that if you finance your vehicle, you also will be required to carry complete comprehensive and collision coverage. This is required because your lien holder will want to be fully reimbursed in the event of a serious accident. This type of coverage is mandatory for someone who owns a car outright – but it reduces the overall coverage you have in the event of a total loss of your vehicle.
If you fail to follow Texas insurance regulations, there are penalties: Driving uninsured will result with a fine of at least $175. If you are fined again, the fees can increase exponentially, and you could lose your driver’s license and vehicle if you commit a third offense. Texas also has a category called “surchargeable violations” that can result in payment of penalties for consecutive years – it means a single offense could stay with you and your driving record for several years.
There are very few exceptions, if any, to Texas insurance laws. If you have a vehicle, you must insure it. This includes a classic car that’s never driven and a car for someone who’s overseas for years. Even non-working vehicles must be insured.
Tips on auto insurance
If rising premiums have you concerned, you might want to consider raising your deductible. This can save you money in the short run on your premiums, but will cost you more in the event of a claim.
To make sure you’re paying the right amount for your insurance, be sure to receive several competitive quotes from different companies before selecting a policy. This will help you verify that you’re receiving the right coverage for your needs, and at the best price.
If you own a home, you might want to think about combining your home and auto insurance policies. Some insurance companies have multiple-policy discounts . Ask your insurer whether this is an option.
Department Of Texas (TX) State Government That Regulates Auto Insurance Quotes:
Web Site: www.tdi.state.tx.us
How To Contact Directly:
Texas Department of Insurance
Physical Location:
333 Guadalupe
Austin, TX 78701
Mailing Address:
P.O. Box 149104
Austin 78714-9104
Phone: 1-512-463-6169
Consumer Helpline
1-800-252-3439 (463-6515 in Austin)
Toll Free: 1-800-578-4677
Texas (TX) Mandatory Auto Insurance Minimums
- Liability: 20/40/15 = Bodily Injury Individual/Bodily Injury Total Per Accident/Property Damage
- Regulations Regarding Proof of car insurance: Proof Required - When Obtaining Registration, If Involved In An Accident
- Penalties For Not Carrying Mandatory Insurance: First Offense = Fine of up to $350